With approximately 50 percent of the U.S. dog population composed of mixed breeds, it's a question many dog lovers hear. In the past, guesses at the breed mix were based on appearance and temperament, but now DNA testing can unlock the mystery of a dog's genetic heritage.

With approximately 50 percent of the U.S. dog population composed of mixed breeds, it's a question many dog lovers hear. In the past, guesses at the breed mix were based on appearance and temperament, but now DNA testing can unlock the mystery of a dog's genetic heritage.

Reading assistance dog programs are popping up at libraries, schools and nonprofit organizations. Both organizers and participants say the literacy dogs are making a significant difference in the lives of children.

Reading assistance dog programs are popping up at libraries, schools and nonprofit organizations. Both organizers and participants say the literacy dogs are making a significant difference in the lives of children.

The change from a full house during the summer to spending the day alone can lead to troublesome -- and even dangerous -- behavior for some dogs. This can mean anxious pacing, inappropriate elimination, chewing or even escape attempts. Here's how to alleviate stress.

The change from a full house during the summer to spending the day alone can lead to troublesome -- and even dangerous -- behavior for some dogs. This can mean anxious pacing, inappropriate elimination, chewing or even escape attempts. Here's how to alleviate stress.

Does a tail wag always mean a happy dog? Are a dog's sloppy kisses a surefire sign of its affection? Since dogs are unable to verbalize what they are really thinking, there are nonverbal cues that we can learn from and respond to accordingly. We separate the facts from the fiction.

1. A wagging tail indicates a happy dog.

False.

Not always. A friendly wag is generally wide and sweeping for long-tailed dogs, and rapid and joyful for smaller breeds. Pay attention to other nonverbal cues: Ears tend to hang low and eye contact is remiss in a happily wagging dog. When a stiffly wagging tail that is held higher is coupled with a glare, this might indicate trouble, so keep your dog clear of any other dogs that are exhibiting that behavior.

2. My dog kisses me because it loves me.

Partially true.

Dogs like the taste of salt, so it may just be that human skin tastes good to them. Other factors are probably at play too. For example, mother dogs lick their newborns from the start. Pups from an early age then learn to associate the licking sensation with something positive, welcome and comforting. In the dog world, it is therefore often a gift to be licked! So consider those poochie smoochies to be a sign of devotion and loyalty.

3. Dogs yawn because they are bored.

False.

Though often considered a sign of boredom, yawns may indicate tension or anxiety in a dog. Yawning may occur when being hugged or petted or even upon being approached by a stranger. Of course, your dog may simply be yawning because it is sleepy and/or relaxed.

4. Dogs roll over and expose their stomachs for a belly rub.

Tralse (a little true, a little false).

A sign of submission, dogs will roll over to show another dog or person they are not a threat or to indicate they are not interested in performing a certain behavior. True, it can mean "Rub my tummy" as well.

Though unable to verbalize, our pets have been communicating their wants, needs and moods for thousands of years. So keep your eyes on your dog. It's probably trying to tell you something important.

Carol Bryantis the Social Media and PR Director for Fido Friendly magazine. A frequent media contributor, Carol is a two-time nominee from the Dog Writers Association of America, and she maintains her own dog blog, Fidose of Reality. Her articles have previously appeared in The Dog Daily.

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